Ground mounting assembly

ABSTRACT

A ground mounting assembly includes one or a plurality of posts, each attached to at least one stabilizing plate or scoop pyramid. The post may be driven into the ground and then lifted to deploy plates into a locking mechanism, or driven into the ground by a pile driver with plate held in place, released, and driven further and deployed into a locking mechanism, or driven into the ground and double pounded inside the post to drive reinforcing plate into slotted winglets, or driven, double pounded and rotated to extend the reinforcing plates horizontally from the pole or pile. The post also can used as a mooring in harbors, lakes, or at sea. A system based on a double pounder pile driven mono pole, optionally extendable in length, is also described.

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a divisional of U.S. application Ser. No.15/820,173, filed Nov. 21, 2017, which in turn is a continuation-in-partof U.S. application Ser. No. 14/777,441 filed Sep. 15, 2015, which inturn is a continuation-in-part of U.S. application Ser. No. 13/839,842,filed Mar. 15, 2013, now U.S. Pat. No. 9,611,609, which application inturn is a continuation-in-part of U.S. application Ser. No. 13/676,990,filed Nov. 14, 2012, now U.S. Pat. No. 9,574,795, which application inturn claims priority from U.S. Provisional Application Ser. No.61/560,037, filed Nov. 15, 2011.

BACKGROUND OF THE DISCLOSURE

The present disclosure is generally related to ground mountingassemblies, systems and methods for ground mounting structures. Theinvention has particular utility in connection with ground mountingphotovoltaic solar panel assemblies, and will be described in connectionwith such utility, although other utilities are contemplated, such asdocks, wharfs, moorings, architectural structures, accents and building,tents, and landscape reinforcements.

Many outdoor structures, such as solar panel assemblies, billboards,signs, docks, tents, wharfs, buildings and the like, are mounted intothe ground using posts or poles. Often, these assemblies are subjectedto high winds, which can loosen the mounting posts, thereby making theassembly unstable. For example, solar panel assemblies typically have alarge surface area for capturing solar energy; however, such assembliesalso may be subjected to wind forces, which may be translated into themounting posts, thereby loosening the soil surrounding the mountingstructure. This problem is particularly amplified where such assembliesare mounted in loose or sandy soil. The same is true in docks, wharfs,and buildings.

In the case of solar panel assemblies, many such assemblies are mountedwith posts that do not have sufficient underground surface area toprovide adequate resistance to counter the wind forces acting upon theabove-ground solar panel assembly. For example, a commonly used post insuch assemblies may be about 2.5 inches in width. To address the problemof instability, one known technique involves pouring a cement cap overthe entire surface of the mounting structure. However, this is a verycostly measure, and further suffers from the disadvantage of making theinstallation a permanent or semi-permanent fixture. Thus, rearranging,modifying or retrofitting the installation becomes significantundertaking because of the presence of the cement cap.

SUMMARY OF THE DISCLOSURE

Embodiments of the present disclosure provide a ground mounting assemblyfor mounting a structure, such as a photovoltaic system mounted to aground mounting assembly, methods for stabilizing a preinstalled groundmounting assembly and methods for ground mounting a structure,including; docks, wharfs, moorings, antennas and building reinforcement.Briefly described, the present disclosure can be viewed as providingpermanent, semi-permanent and temporary, removable ground mountingassemblies, systems and methods for ground mounting structures utilizingposts having attached stabilizing plates for lateral and/or uplift,and/or downward forces.

In one aspect, the present disclosure provides a ground mountingassembly for mounting a structure, which includes one or a plurality ofposts, each post being connected to at least one stabilizing element ofany geometric shape which may take the form of a flat plate which may befixed to or toggle mounted to the post, or for example a half-pyramidshaped structure, fixed to the post. A first portion of the one or moreplurality of posts may define a front of the mounting assembly, and asecond portion of the one or more plurality of posts may define a backof the mounting assembly. Where there is a plurality of posts, each ofthe front posts may be connected to an adjacent one of the back posts bya cross member.

In another aspect, the present disclosure provides a photovoltaicsystem, which includes a ground mounting assembly having one or aplurality of posts, each post being connected to at least onestabilizing element. Where there is a plurality of posts, at least twoof the plurality of posts may be connected by a cross member, and asolar panel array may be mounted to the ground mounting assembly.

In a further aspect, the present disclosure provides a method ofstabilizing a preinstalled ground mounting assembly having one or aplurality of posts buried at least partially in the ground. The methodincludes the steps of: excavating an area of ground surrounding each ofthe posts; attaching at least one stabilizing element to each of theposts, in an area exposed by the excavating; and backfilling theexcavated area. The method may further include, where there are aplurality of posts: excavating a portion of ground between postsdefining a front of the mounting assembly and posts defining a back ofthe mounting assembly; and attaching a cross member between each of thefront posts and an adjacent one of the back posts.

In yet another aspect, the present disclosure provides a method ofground mounting a structure, including the steps of: forming a mountingassembly by driving one or a plurality of posts into the ground, each ofthe posts being connected to at least one stabilizing element; andattaching the structure to an above-ground portion of the mountingassembly. The method may further include the steps of, where there are aplurality of posts: excavating an area of ground between posts defininga front of the mounting assembly and posts defining a back of themounting assembly; attaching a cross member between each of the frontposts and an adjacent one of the back posts; and backfilling theexcavated area.

In yet another aspect, the present disclosure provides a flush to theground or near flush to the ground mounting assembly with swiveling capattachment for structural cables, ropes or chains to tension or tie downpermanent, semi-permanent or temporary structures such as fabric roofstructures, tents, awnings and other architectural structures andelements that may rotate, flex or pull in multiple directions. This maybe due to design of an architectural element that moves, or underdiffering weather conditions the structure moves, also per time of year,season, temperature, wind direction etc.

The features, functions, and advantages that have been discussed can beachieved independently in various embodiments of the present disclosureor may be combined in yet other embodiments further details of which canbe seen with reference to the following description and drawings.

Other systems, methods, features, and advantages of the presentdisclosure will be or become apparent to one with skill in the art uponexamination of the following drawings and detailed description. It isintended that all such additional systems, methods, features, andadvantages be included within this description, be within the scope ofthe present disclosure, and be protected by the accompanying claims.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Many aspects of the disclosure can be better understood with referenceto the following drawings. The components in the drawings are notnecessarily to scale, emphasis instead being placed upon clearlyillustrating the principles of the present disclosure. Moreover, in thedrawings, like reference numerals designate corresponding partsthroughout the several views.

FIG. 1 is an illustration of a side plan view of a photovoltaic (PV)system above and below grade, in accordance with an exemplary embodimentof the disclosure.

FIG. 2 is an illustration of a plan section at a Sigma post, taken alongline 14 of FIG. 1, in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of thedisclosure.

FIG. 3 is an illustration of an overhead plan view of the system shownin FIG. 1, in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the disclosure.

FIG. 4 is an illustration of a side view above and below grade of thesystem shown in FIG. 1, in accordance with an exemplary embodiment ofthe disclosure.

FIG. 5 is a flowchart illustrating a method of stabilizing apreinstalled ground mounting assembly, in accordance with an exemplaryembodiment of the disclosure.

FIG. 6 is a flowchart illustrating a method of ground mounting astructure, in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the disclosure.

FIGS. 7A-7C are rotated perspective views of one alternative embodimentof posts in accordance with the present disclosure.

FIGS. 8A-8B are side elevational views, and FIG. 8C is a perspectiveview, respectively, of yet another alternative embodiment of posts inaccordance with the present disclosure.

FIGS. 9A-9D are side elevational views and FIG. 9E an enlargedperspective view of yet another alternative embodiment of posts of thepresent disclosure showing the use of the locking mechanism.

FIGS. 10A-10B are side elevational views, FIG. 10C a perspective viewand FIG. 10D a top view of still yet other alternative embodiments ofposts of the present disclosure.

FIG. 10E is a flow chart showing a process of installing and stabilizingthe post in accordance with FIGS. 9A-10D.

FIGS. 11A-11N are side elevational and top end views of yet otheralternative embodiments of post of the present invention.

FIGS. 12A and 12B are flowcharts illustrating a method of installing andstabilizing the post of FIGS. 11A-11N.

FIG. 13 is a perspective view of yet another embodiment of the presentdisclosure.

FIG. 14 is a perspective view of a wharf or pier in accordance with yetanother embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 15 is a view similar to FIG. 1 of a side elevation of a dock orwharf in accordance with another embodiment of the present disclosure.FIG. 15A is a view similar to FIG. 1 of a front elevational view of amooring in accordance with yet another embodiment of the presentdisclosure, FIGS. 15B-15G illustrate alternative construction of mooringin accordance with the present disclosure; and FIGS. 15H and 15Iillustrate yet another alternative construction of a mooring inaccordance with the present disclosure.

FIG. 16 is a prospective detail of a wood pile with wharf, pier, orbuilding in accordance with another embodiment of the presentdisclosure, and FIGS. 16A through 16C are top views thereof.

FIGS. 17A, 17B, 17C, 17D, 18A, 18B, 18C, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, and 24illustrate still yet other embodiments of the plate locking mechanism ofthe present disclosure.

FIGS. 25, 25A, 25B, 26, 26A and 27 depict other alternative embodimentsof posts of the present disclosure showing the use of a rotary ram,laterally deployed stabilizer plates and bars, rotary hub mechanism,deployed stabilizers and locking mechanisms.

FIGS. 28, 28A, 28B, 28C, and 29 are further depictions of the describeddisclosure for use as ground anchors that can be manually installed witha hammer and nest together when not in use for ease of storing andtransporting.

FIG. 30 illustrates use of a ground anchor of an accordance with thepresent invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE DISCLOSURE

In the following description, reference is made to the accompanyingdrawings, which form a part hereof, and in which is shown, by way ofillustration, various embodiments of the present disclosure. It isunderstood that other embodiments may be utilized and changes may bemade without departing from the scope of the present disclosure.

FIG. 1 is an illustration of a front elevation view of a photovoltaic(PV) system 10, in accordance with a first exemplary embodiment of thedisclosure. The system 10 includes a solar panel assembly 10 and amounting assembly 20. The solar panel assembly 10 may include an arrayof solar panels 12, which may be physically joined to one another, aswell as electrically connected.

The mounting assembly 20 includes a plurality of posts 22. In oneembodiment posts 22 may be any pile, pole, stake, or any similarstructure which may be positioned at least partially underground, andfixed firmly in an upright position. In one embodiment posts 22 may besigma posts (as shown in the plan section of FIG. 2).

One or more stability elements 24 are attached to each post 22. Thestability elements 24 may take the form of flat plates, and may be made,e.g. of galvanized steel. The elements or plates 24 may be of anydimensions, depending on the desired stability and/or the type ofstructure to be mounted onto the mounting assembly 20. As shown in FIG.1, the plates 24 may be approximately 12″×24″× 3/16″. Preferably, thestability plates 24 include angled lower corners 25. The lower corners25 may have an angle of about 45° to 75°, preferably about 75° from thehorizontal plane, as shown in FIG. 1. The angled corners 25 allow theplates 24, for example when attached to posts 22, to be more readilydriven into the ground. The plates 24 are attached to the posts 22 byany known attachment techniques, including welding, epoxies or otheradhesives, rivets, screws, nuts and bolts or any other structuralfastener, and the like. As shown in the plan section of FIG. 2, takenalong line 14, the plates 24 may be attached to the post 22 with a bolt26. Also, if desired, one or more half pyramid-shaped stabilizingelements or pyramid scoops 102, as shown in greater detail in FIGS.8A-8C may be attached to the post 22.

Depending on the characteristics of the structure to be mounted, theposition of attachment of the stability plates 24 and pyramid scoop 102to the posts 22, as well as the underground depth of the plates 24, andpyramid scoop 102 may vary. As shown in FIG. 1, the structure to bemounted may be a solar panel assembly 10. For such a solar panelassembly 10, the stability plates 24 may preferably be attached to theposts 22 and buried to a depth of about 2′ from grade to the top of theplates 24, with the pyramid scoops 102 below stability plates 24 asshown in FIG. 1. For example, posts 22 may be about 10′ in height, withan embedment depth of about 8′4″ and an above-ground height of about1′8″. The stability plates 24 may be positioned underground such thatthe flat surface of the plates 24 faces the same direction as thevertical component of the solar panels 12 of the assembly 10, as shownby the arrows in FIG. 4. That is, the buried flat surface of the plates24 may face the same direction as the wind-bearing vertical component ofthe above-ground photovoltaic surface, thus providing undergroundresistance to prevent or minimize movement both horizontally andvertical uplift of the posts as the solar panels 12 are subjected towind, or hurricanes, or seismic events. (see FIGS. 3 and 4).

As shown in the plan view of FIG. 3, the posts 22 a and 22 b of themounting assembly 20 may be arranged in a rectangular fashion, with afirst set of posts 22 a defining a front of the assembly 20 and a secondset of posts 22 b defining a back of the assembly 20. A length (L) ofthe assembly 20 may be defined by the total distance between front posts22 a or back posts 22 b, while the width (W) of the assembly 20 may bedefined by the distance between adjacent front 22 a and back 22 b posts.Other geometric patterns may be produced from the positioning of theposts, depending on the shape and mounting positions of the structure tobe mounted, as those having ordinary skill in the relevant field willreadily understand.

The posts 22 a and 22 b may be attached to each other with cross members28, thereby providing further structural strength and stability to themounting assembly 20 and the system 10. Cross members 28 also can beattached side to side to provide additional stability (see FIG. 3). Thecross members 28 may be any type of attachment member for providingstability and/or structural strength when attached between two or moreposts 22 a and 22 b. For example, the cross members 28 may be a rigidstructure, such as a pole or angle. The cross members 28 may be 2″×2″×3/16″ galvanized tube steel.

As shown in the side elevation view of FIG. 4, the cross members 28 maybe attached to the posts 22 a and 22 b underground (e.g., at a positionabove, below or near the position of the plates 24 attached by bolts 26)and/or above ground. The cross members 28 may be attached to the posts22 a and 22 b before or after installing the posts 22 a and 22 b in theground. Additionally further stabilization components similar to items102 may be attached to the posts prior to installation to facilitateincreased resistance to pulling forces, such as upside down pyramidshaped scoops shown as 102 to resist upward pulling forces. Forinstallation slots may be dug into the ground, into which the crossmembers 28 and posts 22 a and 22 b may be positioned, and thenbackfilled. The cross members 28 may be attached to the post 22 a and 22b by any known attachment techniques, including welding, rivets, epoxiesor other adhesives, screws, nuts and bolts or any other structuralfastener, and the like. For example, the cross members 28 may beattached to the post 22 a and 22 b with two self-drilling truss-headscrews.

The cross members 28 may attach posts 22 a and 22 b in pairs, as shownin FIG. 3. The cross members 28 may attach posts 22 a and 22 b along anaxis orthogonal to the flat surface of the plates 24 (e.g., as shown inFIG. 3, the cross members 28 attach front posts 22 a to back posts 22 balong an axis orthogonal to the surface of the plates 24). By attachingcross members 28 to posts 22 a and 22 b orthogonal to the plane of thesurface of the plates 24, stability to the mounting assembly 20 isprovided to the system 100 to counter wind against the face of the solarpanel assembly 10. A structure to be mounted, such as the solar panelassembly 10, may be of a size such that it may be desirable to form themounting assembly 20 of two or more pairs of posts 22 a and 22 b (e.g.,Two pairs of posts 22 a and two pairs of post 22 b, as shown in FIG. 3).However, the mounting assembly 20 may include any number of posts 22 aand 22 b, and may include cross members 28 which may attach posts 22 aand 22 b in any direction, for example, front posts 22 a to adjacentback posts 22 b, front 22 a to front 22 a, back 22 b to back 22 b, aswell as front posts 22 a to non-adjacent back posts 22 b.

The solar panel assembly 10 may be mounted to the mounting assembly20-20 a, for example, by attaching mounting posts 16 of the solar panelassembly 10 to above-ground portions of the posts 22 a and 22 b of themounting assembly 20. While the mounting assembly 20-20 a has beendescribed primarily with respect to mounting a solar panel assembly 10,any other assembly may be mounted to the mounting assembly 20 of thepresent disclosure. For example, the mounting assembly 20 may be usedfor mounting other types of photovoltaic systems, including PVconcentrators and mirror assemblies, as well as billboards, signs,buildings, or any other structure which may be subjected to seismicaction winds and relevant anticipated structural loads.

Existing mounting structures may be retrofitted for stability utilizingprinciples provided by the present disclosure. For example, an existingmounting structure for a photovoltaic system may include posts 22 a and22 b which have previously been driven into the ground, and to which asolar panel assembly 10 has been attached. To provide increasedstability, particularly in loose or sandy soil, plates 24 may beattached to the posts 22 a and 22 b. In order to attach the plates 24,an area of ground surrounding the posts 22 a and 22 b may be dug out,for example to a depth of about 3 feet. Plates 24 may then be attachedto the posts, for example with stainless steel or corrosion resistivebolts 26. For further stability, cross members 28 may be attachedbetween adjacent front 22 a and back 22 b posts, for example, by digginga trench between posts 22 a and 22 b, attaching cross members 28, andbackfilling the trenches.

FIG. 5 is a flowchart 500 illustrating a method of stabilizing apreinstalled ground mounting assembly having a plurality of posts 22 aand 22 b buried at least partially in the ground, in accordance with anembodiment of the disclosure. As shown by block 502, an area of groundsurrounding each of the posts 22 a and posts 22 b is excavated. At block504, a stabilizing plate 24 is attached to each of the 22 a and 22 bposts, in an area exposed by the excavation. At block 506, the excavatedarea is backfilled. The stabilizing plates 24 may be attached to theposts 22 a and 22 b at a position such that the top edge of thestabilizing plates 24 is buried to a depth of 1 foot or greaterunderground.

The method may further include excavating a portion of ground betweenposts 22 a defining a front of said mounting assembly and posts 22 bdefining a back of the mounting assembly 20, and attaching a crossmember 28 between each of front posts 22 a and an adjacent one of theback posts 22 b.

FIG. 6 is a flowchart 600 illustrating a method of ground mounting astructure. As shown by block 602, a mounting assembly 20 is formed bydriving a plurality of posts 22 a and 22 b into the ground, each of the22 a and 22 b posts being connected to a stabilizing plate 24 andoptionally a scoop pyramid—102. At block 604, the structure is attachedto an above-ground portion of the mounting assembly 20. Each of the 22 aand 22 b posts may be driven into the ground to a position such that thestabilizing plates 24 are buried to a depth of about 2 feet underground.The structure may be a solar panel array 10.

The method may further include excavating an area of ground betweenposts 22 a defining a front of the mounting assembly 20 and posts 22 bdefining a back of the mounting assembly 20, and attaching a crossmember 28 between each of the front posts 22 a and an adjacent one ofthe back posts 22 b, and backfilling the excavated area.

It should be emphasized that the above-described embodiments of thepresent disclosure, particularly, any “preferred” embodiments, aremerely possible examples of implementations, merely set forth for aclear understanding of the principles of the disclosure. Many variationsand modifications may be made to the above-described embodiments of thedisclosure without departing substantially from the spirit andprinciples of the disclosure. For example, as illustrated in FIGS.7A-7C, the piles or posts 100A, 100B, 100C may have differentcross-sections, and may have multiple plates 102 and 102 a half-pyramidscoops mounted thereon. Alternatively, as shown in FIGS. 8A-8C, one ormore additional stabilizing elements in the form of a halfpyramid-shaped structure 102 a may be fixedly mounted, using, forexample, mounting plates 104, to the posts whether 22 a or 22 b forstabilizing the structure against uplift, twisting, vertical loads, andresistant strength. In such embodiment, the half pyramid-shapedstabilizing elements or pyramid scoops preferably are fixed to the lowerhalf of posts 22 a and 22 b, but can be placed anywhere along the postto maximize its uplift twisting and vertical loads and resistantstrength. In still yet another embodiment, shown in FIGS. 9A-9D, thestabilizing elements may take the form of toggle mounted anchor plates106 which are pivotably mounted to posts 22 a and 22 b around a pivot108. In the case of pivotably mounted stabilizing elements or plates106, the post typically will be driven in the ground below a targetposition, e.g. as shown in FIGS. 9A and 9B. The posts would then bepulled vertically into a final position causing the toggle mountedplates 106 to fan out against a stop plate 110 which, in a preferredembodiment, comprises a half pyramid-shaped element. Alternatively, asshown in FIG. 9E, toggle mounted plates 106 may be sufficiently strongso that when the plates are slid into slots 107 in brackets or slottedstoppers and flexible locking mechanism 109, the tail ends of the platesbend backwards against themselves, and in concert with slots 107, lockthe plates 106 against both upwards and downwards pressure and force bytabs 109A. Once locked in place, plates 106 have the capacity to resistboth upward and downward motion on the pile.

In yet another alternative, as shown in FIGS. 10A and 10B, thestabilizing elements may take the form of bendable plates 112 havingreduced resistance bending points 114, fixed to post 22 adjacent theirlower ends by fasteners 116. The upper, free ends 118 of plates 112preferably are curved outwardly by lifting the pile upward.Alternatively, as shown in FIGS. 10C and 10D, the plates 112 may bepivoted and locked in position in slots 113 in bracket plates 111. Theright-hand side of post 22 in FIG. 10C depicts the plate 112 deployedwithin the slots 113 whereas the left-hand side of post 22 depicts theplate 112 not deployed, in an upright abutting position to the post 22.Preferably slots 113 are slightly curved to maintain plates 112 byfrictional engagement. Additionally, the locking portion of the bracketplate 111, i.e., the portion of the bracket plate 111 having the slots113, may be flexible and spring like such that it can be biased outwardsby plate 112 as upward force is applied and will snap back to anunbiased position to lock the plate 112 within the slot 113, as shown inFIG. 10D. The disclosure also advantageously may be used with solarthermal energy systems, docks, wharfs, buildings, and moorings.

FIG. 10E is a flow chart showing a process of installing and stabilizingthe post in accordance with FIGS. 9A-10D. Step 1 is used to assemble andattach ground stabilizing or other plates 24 to the pile or pole. Nextthe pile or pole is driven to the desired depth as step 2. In step 3 thepile or pole is driven upward to deploy stabilizing plates shown as 106in FIGS. 9A-9E, and shown as 112 in FIGS. 10A-10D. This motion locks thestabilizing plates into a deployed position at the desired depth. Thenthe piles or poles are ready for use as step 4.

Referring now to FIGS. 11A-11N, in yet another embodiment of theinvention, the pole comprises a double pounder pile driven mono polecomprising an elongate hollow pole 150, preferably having a square crosssection, capped at its distal end 152 by a pyramid-shaped point 154. Thedouble pounder pile driven mono pole 150 includes a follower guide 158that is mounted to the top plate 160 forming the pyramid point 154 viasteel tube spacer 162 which may vary in length (see FIG. 11G). Thedouble pounder may be equipped with plates 150 B to resist lateral load(See FIGS. 11E and 11G). Also, as shown in FIG. 11G, the double poundercan be positioned at any place along the pile. Soils are stratified.Thus, it is desirable to have the plates come out at a soil depth wherethe stabilizers produce the strongest resistive force to motion stressand loads. The double pounder design allows the versatility needed toachieve the maximum holding surface possible. The double pounder alsoallows one to vary the length and the size of the plates dependent onsoils and structural needs. It can be placed anywhere along the pile. Asshown in 11H as the grooved winglets 170A are enlarged and the hollowbox ram 156 enlarged, the spacer half round sleeve guides 156 a areincreased, the number of rollers or ball bearing are increased 156 b,and the steel plates 170 are increased in length. Also, mostspecifically shown in FIG. 11C, stabilizing plates 164 which may beneeded during the double pounding of the pile for its initialinstallation, however they do not need to stay in the final position,and they can be removed. They are only there so that the pile doesn'tget driven down deeper than what the desired engineering requirementsare. Also, it should be noted that plates 150B may be placed anywherealong the double pounder for a maximum stability. Also, as shown in FIG.11G, the grade stabilizer plates may be omitted when the barge or piledriving rig is providing the stabilizing element.

The double pounder can also take on another form, as shown in FIGS. 11Ithrough 11N. This double pounder is noted as the porcupine doublepounder where multiple struts and plates are required to stabilize themono pole or multiple pile structure. The same procedures are followedas noted in FIG. 11A through 11I. However, instead of 1 or 4 platesreleased along the pile, multiple struts and plates are deployed bydouble pounding the connected wedges inside the pile and pounding outthe multiple porcupine plates. These multiple plates can be deployed intwo opposing directions, combined with plungers or rams 1002 having oneor more wedge faces 1004, driven by a pile driver 1006, FIG. 11J to FIG.11N, or at 180° different positions, to create a multiple porcupine pilethat can integrate not only downward forces in a scoop downward fashion,but can be combined with pyramid upward installation to create amaximized pile in all directions. For greater penetration into thesub-soil the porcupine stackable double pounder can be arranged withsingle sided wedges as shown in FIG. 11M with the central stiffeningguide 169X, the grooved winglets and no rollers just lubricated J-shapedslip plates 169 shown in FIG. 11M and further shown deployed in FIG.11N.

FIGS. 12A and 12B are flow charts of the installation steps needed forthe double pounder. In use, the double pounder pile driven mono pole isdriven into the ground to a desired depth using a conventional pole orpile driver in step 1. Then, in step 2 the pile is stabilized with aboveground stabilizer plates 164. Next, a plunger 150 A or ram device isdriven down the inside of pole 150, in step 3 or 3A, to drive steelplates 170 outward, over plate rollers 166 guided by retaining slots170B in plates 170A, which may be lubricated, if desired, with anenvironmentally safe lubricant such as vegetable oil, wax, or the like,through slots 168 formed adjacent the distal end of pole 150, and guidedthrough slotted winglets 169 in plates 170A (FIG. 11J) to provide foruplift and downward restraining baffles or wings. Then, as shown in step4, remove the ground stabilizing plates and the pile is ready for use(Step 5).

The double pounder pile driven mono pole may then be used in combinationwith other like or different poles such as previously described, or maybe used alone for mounting PV systems such as shown in FIG. 13. Theresulting mono pole with a solar panel array attached to it, is capableof counteracting significant loads, and offers significant advantagesover conventional concrete spread footing which require steel reinforcedconcrete and anchor bolts especially in remote locations such as desertsor along power line easements (See FIG. 13), etc. Referring now to FIG.14, in yet another embodiment of the invention, a dock or wharf may bemounted to a plurality of ground mounting poles as above described, inwhich the distal ends of the poles are driven into the lake, river orsea bed, while the proximal ends extend above the water, and a dock orwharf is mounted thereon.

FIG. 15 shows another embodiment of the invention for docks and wharfs.Alternatively, as shown in FIG. 15A, the ground mounting poles aspreviously described may be driven into a lake, river or sea bed, thepile pulled up into a final position, and the pile driver uncoupled,e.g. by unscrewing, and a mooring attached to the proximal end of thepole. However, the mooring shown in FIG. 15A in practice would requireperiodic inspection of the mooring and chain, which in some waters isgenerally every one to three years. Once the toggles were deployedgetting the device out of the bottom of the harbor would docircumferential damage to the bottom, and therefore the eco-systemaround the pile.

FIGS. 15B-15G illustrate an alternative removable mooring pile in whichthe mooring pile is driven into place and the stabilizing plates aredeployed and locked, the stabilizing plates can then be unlocked, onceunlocked, the mooring pile can be pulled upward and removed. Due to theupward pulling motion and soil resistance the deployed but unlockedstabilizing plates will fold against the mooring pile 200 allowingretrieval of the pile with minimal disruption of the surrounding soil,first pound the mooring pile 200 into the bottom of the harbor, but thenusing a releasing mechanism shown in FIGS. 15C, 15D, and 15E that letsthe toggles 202 fold back down to the side of the pile and be retrievedin a more environmentally friendly manner. The pile mooring is installedwith a pile drive mechanism with a spring 204 that latches on to the capof the mooring. The release drive pin 206 is removable in this pilesystem, while driving the pile in, it would be removed. Removal of thepile requires the release drive pin to be installed and once installed,the release drive pin is used to push the release plate downward andrelease the movable locking mechanism to be removed in a retrievalposition.

The pile uses a retaining wire 208 to hold the toggle flat against thepile mooring during initial driving. Once the pile was driven to thebottom to approximately 2′ from the depth where the pile would besituated, the wire would be released, and then the pile driver wouldcontinue to drive the mooring the additional 2′ deeper to release theflaps which would lock into position. Upon needing inspection, the samepile driving service that was used would have a pin in the middle of thepile for the release of the toggle locking mechanism, and there would bea sender and a sounder 210 inside of the pile cap itself and the piledriver. This will allow the barge operator or boat operator to determinethe location of the mooring in the murky water. This is especiallyimportant in waters with muddy conditions at the bottom to latch ontothe pile mooring. The pin release drive would then drive the central pinand plate down into the mooring and release the lower retainers to anoutward position, thereby permitting one to lift the mooring out withoutany major destruction to the bottom of the seabed. The mooring chains212 could be checked, the cap pile mooring would be taken off, allmechanisms checked, e.g. at required time intervals determined by theHarbor Master or Government Body, for standard maintenance, andlubricated and repairs needed to worn parts and would be reinstalledinside or outside the pile mooring, and the mooring would be reinstalledin approximately the same location as it had been taken up.

FIGS. 15F through 15I are based on the workings and description of FIG.15A. However, unlike 15A, the devices in these figures have a releaseand retrieval feature that is similar to FIG. 15A but use a round,hollow, galvanized (or other corrosion resistant treated), pile that isextendable in the field. The extendable hollow piles have a mid-sectionwherein additional lengths or extenders of the hollow pile can be addedusing threaded, sleeved or other types of couplers shown in FIGS. 15Hand 15I in order to gain the required holding capacity in differingsoils. This is particularly advantageous if the area where the newmooring pile has different bottom soil conditions than previous oradjacent mooring piles, the pile length can be adjusted in length untilit provides the correct pull out resistance. FIG. 16 illustrates anotherpreferred embodiment of the disclosure in the form of a wharf, pier, orbuilding. As illustrated in FIG. 16, geometrically shaped scoops orsolid pyramids are attached via bolts or external clamps and work on astandard wood piles, metal piles or piles made of other materials suchas fiberglass or concrete, in possible lengths of 20 to 60 feet long. InFIGS. 16A and 16C a steel, fiberglass, composite, galvanized steel orstainless steel scoop or solid pyramid is thru bolted, utilizing steel(standard steel will work in most cases as there isn't any oxygenpresent in the sand, mud, or clay under the ocean, so use all types),stainless steel, or other corrosion resistant bolts 104, to the woodpile to provide upward twisting and downward resistance to the pile fromtidal, wave, or ice conditions. FIG. 16 B shows the lateral plates 24being thru bolted, utilizing steel, fiberglass, composite, stainlesssteel, or other corrosion resistant bolts 104, through the wooden pilenumber 22A to resist lateral load to the structure above. FIG. 16C showsthe scoop pile with winglets 102C to resist both upward lateral loadsand downward forces because of its thrusting outward form.

Referring to FIGS. 17-24, there is illustrated yet another embodiment ofthe invention in which the toggle plates may be locked in place with alocking mechanism so that the pile or posts would resist not onlyvertical uplift, but also downward pressure as well. The locking toggleplates as will be described in more detail below may be used alone, orin combination with the double pounder plates discussed previously, orwith the scoop pyramid pile element. In such embodiment, the doublepounder porcupine plates should be placed near the bottom or distal endof the piles or posts, while the locking toggle plates locatedintermediate the distal end of the piles or poles and the proximal endsor top ends of the piles or posts.

Referring to FIGS. 17-24, the toggle locking mechanism is bolted orfastened to the pile with a hinged plate attached. The toggle plate istied to the post by stainless steel wire (FIGS. 17A and 18A, or it couldbe held in place utilizing the metal rod locking shaft shown in FIGS.17B, 17C, 18B, and 18C), where the toggle is in the driving position andthere would be either 2 or 4 toggles (or more) on each pile. The pilewould be driven to a recommended depth about a foot or two less than thefinal finished depth. The retainer wire would be removed or metal rodreleased, or a combination of metal rod to wire at top of lockingmechanism (as seen in FIGS. 19, and 18B and 18C). The pile would then bedriven into the locking mechanism by driving the pile downward (FIGS. 20and 21) instead of lifting to set the toggle as discussed previously.Alternatively, as shown in FIGS. 17B-17D and 18B-18C, the wire holdingsystem is a wire viable solution for small piles (6 inch to 12 inchdiameter or square) and for moorings; however it generally will not workwith larger piles such as 18″ round or 24″ square tube piles. There maybe 40′ long or even larger piles which may be 20 or 24″ square, and 80′long. This will require a different mechanism. Instead of the wire thatis shown in FIGS. 17A and 18A.

FIGS. 17B-17D and 18B-18C shows a rod latching releasing mechanism thatwould be inside the metal pile or routed into a wooden pile. Themechanism locking metal so that the metal retaining pin or latch at thebottom would be connected to a continuous rod to above grade, and cansimply be twisted in an open position and the pile driven so that theflaps will be released into the toggle locking mechanism. This willprovide both downward and upward added strength of the pile. Alsoincluded on FIGS. 17D and 18B are rock deflectors (shown in phantom),where required, depending on soil conditions.

FIGS. 21-24 show how the toggle may be locked in the toggle lockingmechanism to take both upward and downward loads. This occurs when theangle shaped toggle pushes out the lower lesser steel locking mechanismand forces the toggle into the slot and against the larger upper lockingmechanism strut, click and lock. This upper larger beefier structure issuch to resist breakage from the pile driving hammer. This latterfeature is preferable in that it would be driven and locked in bothdirections vertically and downward and truly make the pile a muchstronger structural element. Also, the toggles or flaps can be mountedin any location along the length of the pile, as similarly shown in FIG.11G of the double pounder.

FIG. 24 shows the toggle just before it engages the slot at this pointthe toggle is bending the steel lower locking mechanism just before itsnaps into the locking slot.

In FIGS. 25, 25A and 25B another preferred embodiment is shown whereinthe pile or pole stabilizing elements can be deployed at a desired depthin the soil and then be retracted in order to facilitate removal of thepile retrieval pin 2506. The hollow pile 2501 is shown wherein theretracted stabilizing plates 2502A (shown in broken lines in FIG. 25)are held within the hollow cavity of the pile or pole with a springloaded hinge or pivot point 2504 in FIG. 25. The hinge or pivot point isheld in place by pivot plates that are attached to the wall of thehollow pile or pole. The pivot plates are attached by welding or boltedinto place prior to driving the pile or pole into the soil. Thestabilizing bars or plates extend laterally outward through slots thatare machined or saw cut through the pile or pole wall. The pile isreinforced from machined slots with pile stiffen wings 5202B. Thelaterally extended stabilizing plates shown as 2502A lock into positionwhen a wedge shaped driver 2503A is pounded and spun into position shownin FIG. 25B. Once in position the wedge-shaped driver holds thestabilizing plates in place. In further embodiments the stabilizers madeof flat metal, are arranged in a sequential stack, as the tapered driveris pounded down the tapered driver is rotating with the spinner pins2505, pushing each stabilizer out (shown in solid lines in FIG. 25) andstarting to deploy the next sequential stabilizer in the stabilizerstack (see FIG. 25A, and FIG. 25B).

FIG. 26 Depicts lateral plates or bars 2602 mounted to an internalrotary hub 2603 by a hinge point 2605 and lay retracted in a recess 2606that runs latitudinally around the hollow pipe or pile 2601. Theadvantage to this type of design is that once the pile or pole is drivento desired depth the stabilizers can be deployed without the need offurther depth adjustment of the pile or pole in order to deploystabilizers. The internal rotary hub with a keyway 2607 is held in placeby one or more retaining rings 2604. The retaining rings, attached byusing corrosion resistant screws, bolts or even welding are located onthe interior cavity wall of the hollow pile or pole, hold the rotary hubin place not allowing vertical movement of the rotary hub as the pipe orpile is driven into place.

The external ends of the stabilizers are shaped such that when the hubis turned the stabilizers dig into the soil in an outwardly protrudingmanner shown in 2602A-2602D and lock into place using a spring 2609tensioned pin 2608 with a cable 2610 attached to one end. Pulling thecable attached to one end of the spring tensioned pin unlocks thestabilizers and turning the internal hub the opposite direction retractsthe stabilizers allowing removal or the pole or pile.

FIG. 26A shows an internal rotary driver mechanism that deploys thehorizontal stabilizers without need to adjust pipe or pile depth inorder to deploy stabilizers. The disclosed driver mechanism 2610 is heldinternally within the hollow pile or pipe 2601 and guided by threads orgrooves 2614 in the sides of the driver at a pitch and count that allowsthe driver to rotate as it is pounded down. The driver is guided byround rods 2612 that are attached to the internal wall of the hollowpile or pole. The driver is additionally tapered allowing use of thisdriver for the stabilizers depicted in drawing 26A. As the driver isdriven down through a central keyway hole, the key shaped post 2608rotates, where the key shaped post in turn rotates the rotary hub anddeploys stabilizers laterally outward from slots 2606 in the wall of thehollow pipe or pile. Stabilizers are held in a recess and hinged at asingle point 2605. In FIG. 27 yet another preferred embodiment a rotaryground mounted pole or pile cap 2701 is attached on the proximal end ofthe installed and stabilized ground mounting pole assembly 2708 that isin close proximity to the ground or an exterior surface 2709 wherein thecap has an outer diameter and an inner diameter and a top surface,wherein the top surface contains a removable rotating hub 2702. In onepreferred embodiment, the rotating hub is sealed from the elementsutilizing a sealed bearing 2704, the bearing is part of the assembly andis removable for service and replacement if needed, and the cap isattached to the pole mounting assembly at one or more holes 2707 whereinthe cap can be attached, bolted, welded etc. to the ground mountedassembly.

In another preferred embodiment, the rotating hub assembly uses ballbearings and O rings or gaskets to help seal out the elements and allowrotary movement. This assembly can be un-assembled and serviced asneeded over the life of the ground mounted pipe. The rotating hub canrotate an unrestricted 360 degrees in the plane of the top surface andadditionally incorporates a hardware attachment face 2703 to facilitatemounting or connecting the type hardware needed to properly attach theground mounted pipe assembly to a structure, truss, cable or othercomponent of an architectural element for the designed purpose intended.

In yet another embodiment an inverted U shaped mounting rod 2705 withhinged connections 2706 on each end of the U is attached to the hardwareattachment face. The hinge connections allow pivoting of the inverted Uin an arc of at least 180 degrees, thereby allowing unrestrictedrotation and arcing movement of anything attached to the installed andstabilized ground mounting pole. The rotary ground mounted pole or pipeassembly cap is attached to the above ground portion of the buildingassembly to be secured or structure to be built.

FIG. 28 depicts a smaller version of the disclosed invention wherein theground mounting assembly shown 2802 has a pointed endcap 2806 with aclosed geometric cross section that is closed at one end in the shape ofa cone or square and forms a scoop pyramid or cone 2812. The geometriccross section of the mid section 2802 is in the shape of an “L” orpartial circle or other geometric open shape in cross-section, withstabilizing winglets 2804 and an enlarged (in cross section) reinforcedend 2808 that is intended to be hit by hammer to drive the groundmounting assembly into the ground. A cleat 2810 is provided to prevent awire or rope connecting the ground mounting assembly to the object beingheld in place or stabilized, from sliding off the ground mountingassembly when in use such as for staking down camping equipment such asa tent or awning to a camper. Additionally it would be useful aslandscape plant anchors for trees or other plants that need to bestabilized using wire or rope until they are able to root in andstabilize themselves. FIG. 28B depicts a truncated nesting pyramid scoophold down with a more aggressive point and scoop used the same as FIG.28 but for harder ground but still nest one within the other for storageand re-use by campers, the military, and landscapers re-use as 28A. FIG.28B depicts a truncated nesting pyramid scoop mounting assembly withtie-down straps. FIG. 28C depicts a beefier, longer version of nestingpyramid pointed scoop mounting assembly useful, e.g., for highway guardrail installations or retaining walls, and the like, and designed forpile driving machine installation.

FIG. 29 depicts another geometric variation wherein the cross section orthe mounting assembly is round or tubular. As in the case of the FIG. 28embodiment, the mounting assembly can be driven manually with a hammer.The pointed endcap 2906 forms an open scoop 2902 that resists upwardpulling of the ground mounting assembly 2908 once it is installed. Theground mounted assembly is hammered into the ground at the reinforcedopen end 2912 (see drawing) and includes stabilizing winglets 2904 aswell as a notch or cleat 2910 (see drawing) to hold a wire or rope thatis connected to the item being held or stabilized in place.

FIG. 30 depicts the mounting assembly of the invention used to stabilizea tree. The ground mounted assembly 3002, once driven into soil as shown3004 resists forces pulling against it by utilizing the scoop engagedwith the soil offering superior holding tension shown as 3006 and thecleat 3008 stops the guide wire 3010 or rope from sliding off the groundmounting assembly that is anchoring the tree by connecting the tree tothe ground mounting assembly with guide wires, cables or ropes.

In yet another embodiment, not shown, ground mounting poles aspreviously described may be driven into the ground adjacent a buildingor other structure and used to reinforce or stabilize the building orother structure. The ground mounting poles also may be used forstabilizing antennas, flagpoles, light poles, signs, etc.

All such modifications and variations are intended to be included hereinwithin the scope of the present disclosure and protected by thefollowing claims.

1. A method of stabilizing a preinstalled ground mounting assemblyhaving a plurality of posts buried at least partially in the ground,comprising the steps of: excavating an area of ground surrounding eachof said plurality of posts; attaching a stabilizing element to each ofsaid plurality of posts, in an area exposed by said excavating; andbackfilling said excavated area.
 2. The method of claim 1, wherein saidstabilizing elements are flat plates or half-pyramid shaped structures.3. The method of claim 1, further comprising: excavating a portion ofground between posts defining a front of said mounting assembly andposts defining a back of said mounting assembly; and attaching a crossmember between each of said front posts and an adjacent one of said backposts.
 4. A method of ground mounting a structure, comprising: forming amounting assembly by driving a plurality of posts into the ground, eachof said posts being connected to a stabilizing element; and attachingthe structure to an above-ground portion of said mounting assembly,wherein said posts are driven into the ground to a first position thatis below a target position, and thereafter pulling said posts upward tosaid target position.
 5. The method of claim 4, further comprising:excavating an area of ground between posts defining a front of saidmounting assembly and posts defining a back of said mounting assembly;attaching a cross member between each of said front posts and anadjacent one of said back posts; and backfilling said excavated area. 6.A ground mounting assembly comprising a hollow pole with a pointed capat the pole's distal end, wherein the hollow pole has one or morelatitudinal slots through the pole wall from an interior cavity to anoutside surface of the pole and rods protrude into the interior cavityof the hollow pole; wherein the pole contains a rotary mechanism fordeploying at least one stabilizing plate or bar and a central keyway;and wherein the stabilizing plates and bar are attached to the rotarymechanism by at least one pivot point located within the rotarymechanism and the stabilizing plates or bars are reversibly deployed byrotation of the rotating mechanism, wherein the rotating mechanismcomprises a rotating wedge wherein the wedge has a top surface, one ormore side surfaces with grooves or channels oriented at a desired pitchand count longitudinally around the side surface and one or more angledwedge surfaces with the wide portion of the wedge closest to the sidesurface and a key extension extending from the narrow portion of thewedge.
 7. The ground mounting assembly as claimed in claim 6, whereinthe rotating mechanism includes a rotating cap having an interiorsurface and exterior surface and a top that includes a rotary hub thatcan rotate 360 degrees and wherein the rotary hub has a mountingbracket.
 8. The ground mounting assembly of claim 6, wherein therotation of the rotary mechanism occurs when the rotating wedge isstruck or pounded and the key extension penetrates a central keyway ofthe ground mounting assembly.
 9. A ground mounting assembly having adistal end and a proximal end, comprising a formed shape with ageometric crosscut profile, wherein the profile is a partial geometricshape with at least one open side, and wherein the distal end is formedas a pointed cap with a crosscut profile of a geometric shape that formsa half pyramid scoop, wherein two or more of the ground mountingassemblies are configured to be nested or stacked together.
 10. Theground mounting assembly of claim 9, wherein the proximal end of theformed shape has a cleat, notch or other such protrusion extendingtherefrom.
 11. The ground mounting assembly of claim 9, wherein theformed shape has one or more stabilizing winglets extending therefrom.12. The ground mounting assembly of claim 9, wherein the assembly ismade of a metal, preferably formed by stamping, forging, welding orcasting, or plastic, preferably formed by injection molding, or anycombination of metal or plastics.
 13. A ground mounting structure,comprising: a ground mounting pole having a proximal end adapted toextend from the ground, and a distal end adapted to be driven into theground, wherein the ground mounting pole comprises an elongate hollowpole, said elongate hollow pole being open at the pole's proximal endand sized and shaped to accommodate a pole driving plunger or ram havingone or more wedge faces, said hollow pole having a pointed cap at thepole's distal end, said hollow pole further having at least onestabilizing element slidably carried inside the hollow pole adjacent thehollow pole's distal end wherein said at least one stabilizing elementadjacent the hollow pole distal end comprises at least one flat platehaving a distal end positioned adjacent a slot in a wall of the hollowpole, adjacent the pole distal end thereof, said hollow pole furtherincluding slotted winglets configured to extend from an exterior wall ofthe hollow pole, wherein the pole driving plunger or ram comprises aroller-free porcupine structure.
 14. The ground mounting structure ofclaim 13, further including one or more plate stiffeners affixed to anexterior of the hollow pole adjacent the slot.
 15. The ground mountingstructure of claim 14, wherein the pointed cap is shaped as a pyramid,and/or wherein said pole is square in cross-section.
 16. The groundmounting structure of claim 14, further comprising a solar panel orsolar panel array, preferably a solar thermal collector panel or aphotovoltaic collector panel, which may be a stationary solar panel or atracking solar panel, a pier, a wharf, a mooring, an antenna or abuilding structure affixed to the ground mounting pole.
 17. A method formounting a structure to the ground comprising providing a groundmounting pole as claimed in claim 14; driving the distal end of theground mounting pole into the ground to a desired depth; providing theplunger or ram, and driving at least two flat plate stabilizing elementsfrom the inside of the pole over rollers and guided on opposite sides ofthe flat plate stabilizing elements between the slotted winglets inposition adjacent the distal end of the pole, by engaging the wedgefaces of the plunger or ram in contact with proximal ends of the atleast two flat plate stabilizing elements.
 18. The method of claim 17,including the steps of driving the pole to a desired depth, and drivingthe at least two stabilizing elements from the pole using a pile driver.19. A ground mounting structure comprising a ground mounting pole havinga proximal end adapted to extend from the ground and a distal endadapted to extend into the ground, said pole having at least onepivotally mounted plate attached thereto and adapted to be locked inplace to resist uplift and/or downward thrust, wherein the groundmounting pole includes a locking/unlocking mechanism actuator accessiblefrom above ground, wherein the locking mechanism actuator comprises awire, rod or chain.
 20. The ground mounting structure of claim 19,wherein the ground mounting pole includes pivotable stabilizingelements, said ground mounting pole further comprising a rock deflectorshielding the pivotable stabilizing elements, at least in part.
 21. Theground mounting structure of claim 19, wherein the locking/unlockingmechanism comprises a retaining pin or latch adjacent the distal end ofthe ground mounting pole and connected by a wire, rod or chain to anabove-ground accessible location.
 22. The ground mounting structure ofclaim 21, wherein the locking/unlocking mechanism comprises a togglelocking/unlocking mechanism.
 23. A ground mounting structure comprisingan elongated ground mounting pole open at one side thereof, said polehaving a pointed end cap at a distal end, and an elongated geometricopen shape terminating in a reinforced strike plate at a proximal end,wherein the distal end forms a pointed scoop, said pole also having oneor more reinforcing winglets between the distal end and the proximalend, and wherein the structure is configured to be nestable within asecond structure and having a similar shape and size.
 24. The groundmounting structure according to claim 23, wherein the ground mountingpole has a cross-section open shape in the form of an “L”, a partialcircle, or other geometric shape.
 25. The ground mounting structureaccording to claim 23, wherein the reinforced end is enlarged incross-section, and optionally includes a cleat.